Step 1

In a large bowl, beat butter until soft and creamy.

Step 2

Add the piloncillo, vanilla, baking soda, ground cinnamon, orange zest, salt, anise, and ground cloves.

Step 3

Mix until everything is combined, scrape the sides of the bowl occasionally.

Step 4

Add in 2 eggs and molasses.

Step 5

Mix to combine.

Step 6

Add the flour.

Step 7

Mix little by little until a dough forms.

Step 8

Divide the dough in two.

Step 9

Cover with plastic and place in the fridge for 2 hours.

Step 10

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 11

Add flour to a table, roll half of the dough out. About ¼ inch thick.

Step 12

Be careful not to roll out too thin.

Step 13

Dust the cookie cutter with flour.

Step 14

Cut out the shapes with the cookie cutter.

Step 15

Place the unbaked marranitos on a cookie sheet. About 2 inches apart.

Step 16

Mix the last egg with 2 tablespoons water to create an egg wash.

Step 17

Brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash.

Step 18

Bake for 11-13 minutes.

Step 19

Cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 20

Cool completely.

Step 21

Enjoy!